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Dreaming of Diamonds: The Conwell Project

Presented by Temple University at Temple University - Randall Theater

November 11-November 22, 2009

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1888 - A poor young neighborhood man yearns to become a preacher, like Conwell, but obviously lacks both the means and the pedigree to acquire a proper gentlemans education. He comes to pastor Conwell, asking for help.  Can an everlasting moment of inspiration emanate from one simple act of kindness? Temple Theaters, in conjunction with Temples 125th Anniversary Celebration, presents an original ensemble-created theater piece celebrating Conwells dream, illuminating the life of a man shaped by history and spirit, brought to a soulful encounter with the founding moment. The life of Russell H. Conwell, (1843-1925) founder of Temple College, (eventually to be  known as Temple University), was a classic 19th Century American success by all accounts; Civil War veteran, Yale graduate, lawyer,  preacher, and a dedicated community leader; noted author and orator  a man who believed deeply in the combined power of practicing both spiritual and financial self-improvement  as well as cultivating  leadership in community a sentiment compellingly captured in Acres of Diamonds, his most popular and sustaining speech (given over 6,000 times). His life and times witnessed the forging of the American character in the crucible of civil war, the expansion of our frontier,  and the rise of industrialization, individual wealth and international esteem  his was the generation that forged the American Dream.